Tis’ the season for holiday hosting!!! My favorite time of year, and we are working our tails off so hopefully I can actually host in my new kitchen this year! And after years of trying, I’ve finally nailed how to not spend a fortune on cheeses yet still have a really impressive spread. Most of the time I end up with half a cheese board left over – so I’ve definietly learned you don’t need a TON of cheese (depending on the size of your crowd) to still make an impressive spread!
Here are my main tips:
- Buy your cheese and meats at Trader Joe’s or ALDI. You will find the best pricing and interesting flavors.
- You really only need 3 different types of cheese and 2 different types of meats.
- FILLING THE ENTIRE BOARD is the #1 key to making an impressive presentation that will WOW your guests. I can’t tell you how many compliments I get on cheeseboards when I do this!!!
- Pick your cheeses. I suggest a mild blue, a brie and then a cheddar. I also find Fontina and the Toscano (from Trader Joe’s) area always eaten and popular with guests.
- Fill the empty space with fruit – figs & grapes are great options and crackers! I love the flavored crisps from Trader Joe’s they are the perfect size and the interesting and seasonal flavor combos are always ahit.
- Garnish!!! I love to add fresh herbs (rosemary or sage this time of year) and dried cherries. You can also add nuts.
This is beautiful! Mastering the art of the cheeseboard is totally something I aspire to do! What kind of meat do you typically choose?